Terror-proof litter bins on BMC’s mind: 2,500 at 1,250 VIP spots

In a first of its kind move, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to install terror-proof litter bins at important locations in the city.

In a first of its kind move, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to install terror-proof litter bins at important locations in the city. Around 2,500 galvanised iron (GI) bins will be placed across 1,250 locations frequented by VIPs.

The civic body is also planning to install an equal number of bins of 6.5 litre capacity each at as many tourist spots in the city. Fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP) bins will also be installed at 2,500 spots. Two bins will be placed at one spot (for disposing dry and wet refuse separately).

“We have selected four models that can be installed across 5,000 spots in the city. Considering security concerns, we are considering installation of GI bins in VIP areas. These bins were tried out earlier on an experimental basis in a few places. Now, we plan to install them on a much larger scale for the first time,” said additional municipal commissioner Mohan Adtani.

The corporation also hopes that the GI bins with a perforated body and low recyclable value will not be stolen from the spots where they are installed. Officials said the bins are strong enough to endure the impact of bomb explosions.

As of now, the BMC has identified areas in wards such as A (Nariman Point, Fort), C (Zaveri Bazaar, Bhuleshwar), D (Grant Road, Girgaum), G-South (Lower Parel, Worli), G-North (Dadar) and H-West (Bandra) where the bins will be installed.

The municipal administration hopes to move a proposal before the standing committee in three weeks so that installation work can begin within a month. Officials added that the work will be completed in two to three months.

“The proposal has to be approved by committee members before work can begin,” said Adtani.
A Churchgate resident welcomed the proposal aimed at enhancing security. “The issue here is execution. One can only hope that the civic body sticks to its words,” she said, on the condition of anonymity.